Apparatus and method for dispensing prizes

ABSTRACT

A device for dispensing prizes includes a housing having a plurality of compartments, a door attached to the housing for coving the compartments, and a lock for limiting access to the compartments. The contents of the compartments are visible from the outside. Each compartment contains a prize, such as a diamond. The housing may be part of, or linked to, a gaming device. When a player wins a game, which entitles the player to select a tangible award, the device signals this fact to the player. The player then selects a compartment by pressing an input device located on the housing. An attendant opens an external door, and inserts an electronic key into a receptacle associated with the selected compartment, and enters a required code into the key. The compartment then opens, and the player obtains the prize. The device may also include an inventory control system which preferably uses an RFID apparatus for monitoring the contents of each compartment, and for keeping records of an inventory of prizes.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/769,168, filed Jan. 24, 2001, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/660,823, filed on Sep. 13, 2000, whichclaims priority of U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/153,765,filed on Sep. 13, 1999. The disclosure of these applications are herebyexpressly incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of Invention

The present invention relates to the field of gaming, and provides amethod and apparatus for dispensing prizes.

2. Description of Related Art

There are many kinds of gaming devices in current use. Such machinesinclude slot machines, either mechanical or electronic, video pokermachines, arcade games, and many other kinds of mechanical, electrical,and electronic machines, which enable players to play games. In allcases, these machines provide prizes in only limited ways. It is, ofcourse, possible for a machine to dispense a prize of coins directly tothe player, as is commonly done in the case of slot machines and thelike. Other electronic gaming machines include built-in printers thatprovide a winning player with a voucher, which can be redeemed for moneyat a cashier's window. In all of these cases, the prize is in the formof money, not some other tangible item of value. Depending on the designof the gaming machine, the player may see a display of a dollar amountthat can be won with the machine. But for gaming machines of the priorart, the awarding of non-monetary prizes has not been consideredfeasible due to requirements of security and inventory control.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,397,125 issued to Adams discloses a gaming device withpayouts in multiple forms. One form of payout comprises a nationalcurrency, such as U.S. quarters, while another form of payout comprisestokens formed of a precious metal, such as silver and/or gold. Thedevice disclosed in this patent displays tokens to players. However, thetokens displayed to the player are merely representative of the tokensthe player may receive when the player achieves the appropriate award. Aplayer is not allowed to see the actual prize that is to be awarded tothe player and no means is provided for allowing the player to selectthe prize that is to be awarded to the player from among a plurality ofprizes. The enjoyment and excitement of wining a prize is greatlyincreased when players can select the actual award the player willreceive. This is especially true when the prizes are unique or subjectto personal taste, such as jewelry.

The entertainment value of some games may be substantially enhanced whenthe player has the opportunity to view the actual award that can be won.Moreover, some kinds of valuable tangible prizes occupy very littlespace, such as diamonds, jewelry, watches, tickets to popular sportingevents, keys to an automobile, and others. However, placing prizes ofthis kind in a display case is problematic, because of the need forsecurity. In order to display prizes of this kind continuously toplayers, a mechanism must be provided that assures neither players norgaming personnel will be able to gain access to such prizes withoutproper authorization.

Also, it is important to have a mechanism for automatically monitoringinventory of prizes, both for purposes of maintaining security of theprizes, and to be sure that the gaming machine is properly stocked atall times.

The present invention provides a method and apparatus that makes itfeasible to display and dispense actual, non-monetary prizes that can bewon at a gaming machine. The invention provides multiple levels ofsecurity that greatly reduce the chance of theft by players or byemployees of the gaming establishment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises a system for awarding prizes. The systemcomprises at least one gaming device, at least one prize, and at leastone vault. The gaming device being adapted to allow a player to play agame and produce a predetermined prize-qualifying event. The vault isadapted to store and display the prize and dispense the prize after thepredetermined prize qualifying event occurs. The vault comprises ahousing, a compartment in the housing, and a lock. The compartment isadapted to hold the prize and the lock is adapted to limit removal ofthe prize from the compartment. The player may directly view the actualprize that may be awarded to the player when the prize qualifying eventoccurs.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

One of the advantages of the present invention is that it provides agaming device that displays one or more tangible prizes or symbols ofprizes.

A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides agaming device that allows players to select the actual prize that willbe awarded to the player.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a systemthat securely stores physical prizes.

An additional advantage of the present invention is that it utilizes anapparatus that enhances the entertainment value of a gaming device, bymaking it feasible to display and dispense tangible prizes to winners ofgames.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a devicefor storing and dispensing of tangible prizes or symbols of prizes,wherein the device has an automated means for monitoring an inventory ofprizes.

A further advantage of the present invention is that it provides adevice for automatically dispensing prizes.

Another advantage of the present invention is that it provides a systemfor allowing players of different gaming devices to view, select, andreceive prizes from a display device that displays a plurality ofprizes.

Yet a further advantage of the present invention is that it providesmethods and devices for monitoring prizes and tracking prize inventory.

The reader skilled in the art will recognize other objects andadvantages of the present invention, from a reading of the followingbrief description of the drawings, the detailed description of theinvention, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is substantially a perspective view of the dispensing device ofthe present invention, showing its door opened.

FIG. 2 is substantially a perspective view similar to FIG. 1, showing acontainer containing a prize coming out of a compartment of thedispensing device.

FIG. 3 is substantially a perspective view, similar to FIGS. 1 and 2,showing the dispensing device with its door closed.

FIG. 4 is substantially a front elevational view of one embodiment ofthe dispensing device of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is substantially a perspective view of a gaming machine equippedwith the dispensing device of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is substantially a schematic diagram of the system of the presentinvention.

FIG. 7 is substantially a schematic diagram showing the preferred formof a radio frequency identification (RFID) system that may be used inthe present invention.

FIG. 8 is substantially a flow chart illustrating the major steps of themethod of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is substantially a front view of an alternate embodiment of thedispensing device of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is substantially a front view of another embodiment of thedispensing device of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is substantially a schematic diagram of a system of the presentinvention.

FIG. 12 is substantially a partial cross-sectional view of oneembodiment of an automatic dispensing mechanism of the presentinvention.

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of another embodiment of the dispensingdevice of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a front view of another embodiment of the dispensing deviceof the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Vault

The present invention includes a vault, generally indicated by referencenumber 1, that is adapted to store, display, and dispense tangibleprizes to players of various gaming devices. The vault of the presentinvention may be adapted to sit on top of a gaming machine, to be formedintegrally with a gaming machine, or to be linked to one or more gamingmachines via a communication device. FIGS. 1-4 illustrate one embodimentof the vault of the present invention, and FIG. 5 shows a typical gamingdevice equipped with such a vault.

As shown in FIG. 1, vault 1 includes a housing 14 having a curved topportion 3, and a generally flat bottom portion 5 enabling the vault tobe mounted on a conventional gaming device. It is recognized, however,that other shapes may also be used. For example, top portion 3 may beflat to allow a plurality of vaults to be stacked on top of each other.

Compartments 9 are used to hold tangible or symbolic prizes. Eachcompartment 9 may comprise a lock 11 for limiting access to thecompartment and limiting removal of the prize stored therein. Lock 11may comprise a locking plate 10, which projects into compartment 9 andprevents removal of the prize. Lock 11 may comprise an electronicallyenabled lock controlled by CPU or controller 53 (see FIG. 6) or otherwell known mechanical locks.

Compartments 9 are normally further enclosed by door 15, which may belocked by locking mechanism 17. Door 15 further limits access to thecontents of the compartments. Locking mechanism 17 may include amechanical lock actuated by a key and it may also include anelectrically activated mechanism. Locking mechanisms 17 may also use avariety of security devices, such as a radio frequency identification(RFID) system that shall be discussed more fully below, to enable themechanism. If the RFID system is used, an attendant may present an RFIDbadge that is interrogated by an RFID sensor 18 to verify the securitypermissions of the attendant and allow the attendant to open lockingmechanism 17.

Door sensor 57 may also be provided to signal when door 15 has beenopened. Door sensor 57 is any device that can monitor the status of theexternal door and generate a signal that door 15 is open or closed, suchas a mechanical switch or a proximity sensor.

Door 15 may comprise a transparent partition or window 25 that may bemade from a variety of materials, such as of hard plastic or glass. Thepartition permits the contents of the compartment to be viewed from theoutside, but limits access to the compartment.

Vault 1 may include a display device 7 for display of indicia relatingto the game or other game related information. An input device 13 may beassociated with each compartment. Input device 13 may be a pushbutton,which a player can actuate to indicate his or her choice of award.Alternatively, input device 13 may comprise a touch screen, such asdisplay device 7. In this embodiment, a single touch screen may beadapted to allow players to indicate selection of any of thecompartments. Many other input devices 13 may be used with the presentinvention.

FIG. 2 shows the vault of the present invention, in a view similar tothat of FIG. 1, except that FIG. 2 also shows a container 23 extendingout of one of the compartments 9. Container 23 is adapted to hold atangible or symbolic award, which will be described later, and it is atleast partially transparent to allow players to view the prize heldtherein. FIG. 2 also shows, an alternative embodiment in block form inwhich electronic key 19, such as a Medeco electronic lock and keysystem, is shown to be temporarily connected by cable 21 to lock 1.

FIG. 3 is substantially a perspective view, similar to those of FIGS. 1and 2, but showing the door 15 in the closed and locked position.

FIG. 4 is substantially a front elevational view of one preferredembodiment of vault 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, thevault includes a plurality of compartments 9, each of which holds aprize 27. In this embodiment, each prize 27 comprises a gemstone.Gemstones and jewelry are particularly well adapted for use with thepresent invention because they are small, valuable, unique, andattractive. Each gem is mounted in a suitable case, such as a jewelrybox, and the entire case is held within container 23. Each container 23is in turn held within a compartment 9.

In the more general case, the prizes need not be diamonds, but can beany prizes that can be conveniently stored and displayed incompartments. Examples of other kinds of prizes include rings, watches,other pieces of jewelry, rare coins or stamps, or tickets toentertainment events or other services. Still other prizes could includetangible symbolic prizes that represent a prize that is not present. Forexample, symbolic prizes may include keys to an automobile or an imageof a good or service. All such prizes are intended to be included withinthe scope of the present invention.

In some cases, it may be desirable for the player to redeem the prize atanother location. The redemption location may be a dedicated area, suchas a redemption booth, in the gaming establishment or a merchant thatdeals in the kind of good or service that is being awarded For example,if the player selects a key to a car, the player may actually obtainpossession of the car at a car dealership. If the player selected adiamond ring, the player may be given a symbolic equivalent and theplayer would pick up the diamond ring at a jewelry store so the ring canbe properly fit to the person. This method of redemption has theadvantage of simplifying the redemption process because the gameoperator need not duplicate the specialized knowledge and servicesprovided by merchants of the good or service. Furthermore, the gameoperator need not have a large inventory of prizes.

In the embodiment disclosed in FIG. 4, each compartment 9 includes atransparent partition 33. Partition 33 allows light to pass from onecompartment to another, thereby aiding viewing of the prizes 27. Thecompartments are further secured by an external door 15, of the typeshown in FIGS. 1-3, and having its own transparent window 25, whichallows observation of all of prizes 27.

At the top of the vault is a light 29 that is adapted to signal anattendant that a player has qualified to select a prize from vault 1. Inthe example of FIG. 4, light 29 includes a representation of a diamond,because diamonds are the prizes held in the compartments, and diamondsconstitute the “theme” of this particular machine. Light 29 may takeother forms within the scope of the invention.

Light 29 may include various combinations of lights, including one ormore lights within the representation of the diamond, and perimeterlights surrounding the diamond. Also, there are perimeter lights 31disposed around the main body of vault 1 itself. These lights can beprogrammed to flash during normal play, and/or when a player has won amajor award. The pattern of flashing can be made to vary to suit thesituation. For example, the pattern of lights could be programmed toflash more rapidly when the player has just won a prize.

In the preferred embodiments described above, there are at least threelevels of security, namely the external door lock, the input devicesoperated by the player upon winning a game, and the electronic keys intowhich an attendant enters a necessary code. However, some of theselevels could be omitted, if it is desired to simplify the system and/orto reduce its cost. For example, one would provide a vault in which theonly conditions needed to open a compartment are that the player wins agame and that the player selects a particular input device. In anotherexample, one could provide a vault the includes the entire above, plusthe requirement of the use of the electronic key. The latter systemwould therefore omit the external door. These alternatives are not assecure as the preferred embodiment, but should nevertheless beconsidered within the scope of the present invention.

The number of compartments can also be varied. It is possible to providea device with only one compartment, containing only one award at onetime. The latter arrangement might be used if it desired to award anextremely special prize.

Gaming Device

FIG. 5 shows one of the embodiments of vault 1 of the present inventionused in conjunction with a gaming device 35. Gaming device 35 mayinclude a display device 39, such as spinning reels or a video displaydevice, and input devices 36, such as buttons or a touch screen. In thisexample also, the prizes stored in compartments 9 of the vault arediamonds.

In FIG. 5, vault 1 is an integral part of the overall gaming device. Aswill be discussed below, it is also possible to form the vaultseparately, and to attach it to the gaming machine, or to operate thevault remotely from the gaming machine. The latter alternatives arewithin the scope of the present invention.

Note also that in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, all compartmentscontain the same type of award. In a more general case, it is notnecessary that the prizes in each compartment be the same. Providing amixed selection of prizes can enhance the entertainment value of thegame, and can also enable the system to cater to the desires of a largerpercentage of the gaming public.

Central Processor Unit

As seen in FIG. 6, vault 1 comprises central processor unit (CPU) 53,which is preferably a programmed computer or microprocessor, or itsequivalent. The CPU is coupled to a conventional gaming device 35, whichcould be a slot machine, a video poker machine, or any other gamingmachine capable of signaling, to the CPU, that a player has qualified toselect a prize from vault 1.

In practice, gaming device 51 may be integrated into the same housing asvault 1, as shown in FIG. 5, or it may be physically separate andlocated some distance away. Alternatively, the vault may be connected toa plurality of gaming devices 35 through a communication network. Inthis way, the vault can dispense prizes for a plurality of devices. Thecommunication network may be any of a number of network systems that arewell known in the art. In this embodiment, each gaming device 35 wouldsend a signal to the vault when a player had qualified to win a prize invault 1. Vault 1 may also be connected to a central computer that maymonitor the vault and provide additional security. The central computermay verify when a player has won a prize in vault 1 and the centralcomputer may enable locks in the vault to allow an attendant to removeprizes from the vault.

Various peripheral components are connected to CPU 53, such that the CPUcan monitor their status. These include lock 11, door sensor 57, inputdevice 13, and inventory sensors 61.

CPU 53 is preferably programmed to enable a lock to open only when anappropriate signal is received from a gaming device, and when thecorresponding input device 13 is activated. It can also be programmed toprevent any lock from opening if an incorrect input device is pressed,or if more than one input device is pressed.

The inventory sensor 61 is a device for monitoring the contents of thecompartments. As noted above, the inventory sensor could be a simpleswitch or microswitch that is actuated when a box is in a compartment,and not actuated when a box is not present. It could instead be anon-contacting proximity sensor, such as a capacitive sensor, capable ofdetermining the presence or absence of an object in the compartment.More preferably, the inventory sensor is an RFID system, which requiresthat a tag be affixed to each award, the tag having circuitry capable oftransmitting an encoded reply in response to an interrogation signal.The type of sensor used does not limit the invention.

CPU 53 is also connected to light display generator 63 and audiogenerator 65. The light display generator 63 comprises circuitry forcontrolling the lights on the periphery of the gaming device and/or onthe periphery of vault 1, and/or the lights on top of vault 1. The audiogenerator 65 controls the playing of a musical tune, preferably a happytune, which accompanies the winning of a prize by a player. Both thelight display and the audio generator serve to enhance the entertainmentvalue of the device, by announcing a player's good luck in winning amajor award, and by broadcasting this event to other customers in thevicinity of the device. The light display and audio generator alsoassist attendants in locating the machine that is the site of thewinning play. Both, either, or neither of the light display and audiogenerator could be used, within the scope of the invention.

CPU 53 may also be in communication with display device 7. CPU 53 ispreferably adapted to cause display device 7 to display a variety ofappropriate presentations, such as instructions to the player to selectan input device when the player has qualified to receive a prize fromvault 1. Display device 7 may also be a touch screen that is adapted toserve both as a display device and an input device.

Method of Operation

A general description of the method of use of the present invention isas follows. First, the player qualifies to receive a prize from vault 1.This may occur when the player obtains a predetermined event on a gamingdevice. In the preferred embodiment, the prize is a special prize, i.e.one that is awarded comparatively rarely. However, the invention is notnecessarily limited to use with special prizes.

When the player has qualified to receive a prize from vault 1, the vaultso notifies the player. Such notification may include the playing of a“happy” tune on an audio system connected to, or forming part of vault 1and/or the flashing of lights in an unusual pattern. If the gamingmachine includes a light 29 or other attendant alarm, the alarm can beactivated to summon an attendant who may be needed to help the playerretrieve the prize.

The player then must choose a prize from one of the compartments. Theplayer may indicate this choice by pressing one of the input devices 13.The player may be required to indicate a choice even if the compartmentsall contain the same award. But whether or not the prizes are the sameor different, the device will work in essentially the same way.

In the preferred embodiment, selecting a prize may be a necessary, butnot sufficient, condition to open the compartment associated with thatinput device. Additional steps, described below, may be performed beforethe contents of the selected compartment can be retrieved. Also, in thepreferred embodiment, for reasons of security, when a given input deviceis pressed, CPU 53 automatically disables the other input devices, sothat it is not possible to open any compartment other than the oneselected by the player.

Meanwhile, in the preferred embodiment, an attendant arrives, summonedby the sights and/or sounds of a winning machine. The attendant maycarry both a master key that can unlock lock 17 on external door 15 andan electronic key 19. Electronic key 19 is programmed to open a givencompartment when an appropriate code, associated with the selectedcompartment, is entered into electronic key 19. The attendant connectselectronic key 19 to lock 11 associated with compartment 9 selected bythe player, and enters a code on a keypad on the electronic key. Aspecific code may have been previously assigned to each compartment, andthe attendant must enter the correct code pertaining to the compartmentselected by the player.

If the code entered by the attendant is correct, lock 11 opens (lockingplate 10 retracts), and the contents of compartment 9 can be removed. Atthis point, the attendant can lock compartment 9, leaving it empty untilanother award can be placed therein. Alternatively, the attendant canimmediately refill the compartment 9, and then lock it. It may also bepossible to leave the compartment empty temporarily, and not to lock thecompartment.

The electronic lock described above is commercially available. Forexample, one could use an electronic lock sold by Medeco, of Salem, Va.,under the trademark INSITE VLS, the latter product being covered by U.S.Pat. No. 5,140,317, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference. Other products may also be used.

It is recognized that vault 1 may be provided without many of thesecurity features discussed above. For example, vault 1 may beconfigured so that the selected prize is automatically given to theplayer. In this embodiment, no attendant is needed to open door 15 ofvault 1. Door 15 may automatically open and close and the appropriateprize may be ejected from the appropriate compartment 9.

FIG. 8 is substantially a flow chart illustrating the major steps in theoperation of CPU 53 according to one embodiment of the presentinvention. This method of operation may be implemented as a softwareprogram installed in CPU 53. The program begins in block 101. Theprogram then determines whether a player has won a game that wouldentitle him or her to select a prize displayed in the vault. Normally,the answer would be no. In this case, CPU 53 would proceed to test 105,which checks the status of the inventory sensor. If the condition of theinventory is normal, CPU 53 proceeds to test 107, which checks thecondition of door 15. If either of these tests indicates an abnormalcondition, CPU 53 sounds an alarm, in block 109, and stops, in block111, thereby disabling vault 1.

For the vast majority of iterations, the player will not have won agame, and there will be no abnormal condition. The program willtherefore execute the loop described above, until one of the aboveconditions changes.

Assume now that the player has won the right to select a prize held invault 1. CPU 53 activates the lights and/or sounds associated with thewinning of the game, in block 113. CPU 53 then waits for an input deviceto be pressed, in test 115.

Next, in test 119, CPU 53 waits for input from an electronic key 19,which is to be connected to lock 11 associated with the selectedcompartment. If electronic key 19 is not connected to the correctcompartment, or if the code entered into the key is not correct, CPU 53will sound an alarm and stop, according to test 121. CPU 53, in block117, enables compartment lock and deactivates the input device. If theelectronic key is connected correctly, and the entered code is alsocorrect, CPU 53 opens lock 11 associated with the selected compartment,in block 123. In block 125, CPU 53 updates its inventory records,according to the prize that is removed. It is also possible that theattendant may replace the inventory at this point, in which case block125 also includes updating the inventory to reflect the prize placed inthe vault. CPU 53 then deactivates the lights and/or sounds, in block127, and resets the lock and input device signals, so that it is readyto detect future activation of these. The program then returns to block101.

Alternative path 116 is provided for a simplified embodiment in whichthe selected prize is automatically dispensed. This embodiment,discussed more fully below, utilizes fewer security features.

The present invention also comprises a method for awarding timesensitive prizes. The value of some prizes is dependent on time. Forexample, tickets to a boxing match have no value after the boxing matchhas occurred. To avoid having this kind of prize sit in the vault untilthey are worthless, the vault or the associated gaming machine wouldincrease the probability of winning the prize the closer the time is toa critical date. For example, the probability of winning boxing ticketsmay be 0.001 a month before the event while the probability of winningthe boxing tickets may be adjusted to 0.01 one day before the event andfurther adjusted the day of the event to a probability of 1. It is wellwithin the ability of game designers to program gaming machines to usedifferent probabilities depending on the date.

There are many ways to vary the program illustrated in FIG. 8 anddescribed above. Various security tests could be performed almostsimultaneously, and repeatedly, at different points in the logical flowof the program. For example, one could check the integrity of theexternal door and of the inventory, at different locations in theprogram. The arrangement of FIG. 8 comprises only one example, and isnot intended to limit the invention to a particular method.

In the examples given above, the operation of the external door lock isindependent of the operation of the gaming device and the vault. Theattendant simply uses a conventional key to open the door, to allowaccess to the compartments when they are opened. However, it is alsopossible to control the external door lock according to the status ofthe gaming device. That is, CPU 53 could include means for preventingthe external lock from opening unless the player wins a game resultingin one of the prizes displayed in the vault. In the latter case, theprogram would need to test for the status of the external lock in thesteps, which are executed following a “YES” answer in test 103. It isalso possible to make the external lock an electronic lock.

Prize Monitoring

The present invention also includes a method and apparatus formonitoring and tracking prizes. and control inventory. To perform thisfunction, it is necessary to provide the apparatus with a means fordetermining at least the presence or absence of an object in acompartment. Such means could be as simple as a microswitch that isactuated only when a prize is present, the microswitch being connectedto appropriate circuitry for determining the condition (open or closed)of the switch. Alternatively, one could use a proximity sensor, such asa non-contacting capacitive sensor, which is available from StedhamElectronics Corp., of Reno, Nev. Yet another alternative includesoptical devices, such as bar code labels or tags attached to the prizesand one or more bar code scanners positioned in or near vault 1 to readthe bar codes.

In a more preferable alliterative, a radio frequency identification(RFID) system may be used. In this system, a tag attached to the prizeincludes circuitry comprising a radio frequency transmitter. This tag ispreferably included within the sealed prize container. An RFID tagreader, comprising a transceiver, or a separate transmitter andreceiver, is provided in or near each compartment 9. The tag reader unitsends an RF signal that interrogates the tag. The transmitter on the tagresponds with an encoded signal in reply. This encoded signal is thendecoded by the receiver portion of the reader unit. The encoded signaltransmitted by the tag can include information relating to the nature ofthe object, and is intended to include information, which is unique tothe object to which the tag is affixed.

The advantage of an RFID system is that not only can the system detectthe presence or absence of an object in a compartment, but it can alsodetermine other information about the object, based on informationencoded in the tag and transmitted to the reader. Information about aprize may be encoded in other forms such as a machine readable bar code.

In the preferred embodiment, a combination RFID and bar code system isused to monitor and track the prizes. In this embodiment, the bar codecontains a unique identifier to identify the prize. The bar code may ormay not be different from the unique identifier provided by the RFID.The bar code may be part of a tamper evident security label that sealsthe prize container which when broken indicates that the prize containerhas been opened. The inventory database may use both unique identifiersfor inventory validation purposes.

Thus, using the inventory control means discussed above, the system cankeep track of how many prizes are still in inventory, how many arelocated in the compartments, and how many have been won and distributedto players. The RFID system is especially useful in cases wheredifferent prizes are displayed in the various compartments, because thesystem can know exactly what kind of award is located in any particularcompartment. The inventory control system therefore comprises not only ameans for monitoring inventory, but also as a means for enhancingsecurity, as it can be programmed to provide early warning if a prize isimproperly removed from a compartment.

One embodiment of the present invention utilizes at least one uniqueinventory identifier. The identifier is associated with a particularaward and it is used to track and monitor the prize. When a gameoperator first purchases a prize or the prize becomes associated withthe system, the prize may be assigned the unique identifier. Theidentifier would preferably be stored or registered in a database thatis maintained on a central computer or within the gaming device when theprize is sealed in a prize container. Every transaction involving theprize may then be recorded in the database. For example, a transactionmay be recorded when a prize is taken out of storage and placed in vault1 or when the prize is given to a player. The RFID system describedabove may be adapted to identify each award by its unique identifier.The gaming establishment and other entities may have access to theinventory database. Information from the database may be used to planthe manufacturing of inventory and marketing activities.

FIG. 7 is substantially a schematic diagram of one embodiment of theinventory sensors shown in FIG. 6. RFID tag reader 71 includes atransmitter that sends an interrogation signal to the RFID tags, and areceiver which receives signals sent in reply by the various tags. Thetransmitter and receiver portions of reader 71 may be included in thesame unit, and in fact may be provided on the same electronic chip.Multiplexer 73 performs a time-division of the transmitted signal, suchthat the signal will be transmitted by only one of the various antennas75 at one time, each antenna being associated with one of the RFID tags.RFID tags 77 are positioned to receive from, and transmit to, therespective antennas 75. Multiplexer 73 enables one tag reader 75 to beused for the entire system, even though there are a plurality of RFIDtags. Appropriate circuitry in multiplexer 73 decodes the receivedsignal, so that the tag reader will know which tag transmitted aparticular reply, based on the time at which that reply was received.Such multiplexing technology is within the level of ordinary skill ofpersons skilled in the electronic arts.

In the preferred embodiment, the vault is in communication with acentral computer. The central computer holds a database of attendantsauthorized to open the vault for the purposes of awarding prizes orrestocking prizes. A transaction record may be stored in a centralcomputer each time a vault is accessed or a prize is awarded orrestocked. In the latter case, the database in the central computer mayonly allow an attendant to open the vault during specific times.

Alternative Configurations

Turning now to FIG. 9, the present invention includes a vault 200. Vault200 comprises. a housing 202 that may be made from a variety of suitablematerials, such as steel and glass. Similar to the embodiment discussedabove, a plurality of compartments 9 are provided in housing 202 forholding a plurality of prizes and openings are provided in thecompartments for allowing the prizes to be removed. However, unlike theembodiment discussed above, vault 200 comprises a plurality of doors 15,which are attached to the housing, for covering the openings in theindividual compartments. Alternatively, vault 200 may be provided withone single door providing access to all compartments 9. Each door 15 maybe provided with a window for allowing players to view prizes in thecompartments 9 and a lock 17 may be attached to each door, housing 202,or both for limiting the operation of the doors. Input devices 13 mayalso be provided for allowing players to select an award to be dispensedfrom vault 200. FIG. 9 shows input device 13 attached to doors 25.However, input devices 13 may be separate from vault 200 and acommunication device, such as an electrical wire, may used to transmitthe selection information to the vault.

Vault 200 may be operated in much the same way that vault 1 is operated,discussed above. This embodiment may be used to store and display alarger number of prizes than the embodiment discussed above. As will bediscussed below, a larger number of prizes may be needed if a singlevault is used to service a plurality of gaming devices. This embodimentalso provides the advantage of centralizing the distribution of prizes,thereby reducing the cost equipment, maintenance, and support.

As seen in FIG. 10, the present invention also includes vault 250. Vault250 comprises a housing 262 with a plurality of compartments 256 locatedin the housing. In this embodiment, a door 252 is provided for eachcompartment 256. Each door 252 may comprise a window 254 for allowingplayers to view prizes located in the compartments 256. Input devices 13are provided for allowing players to select prizes.

Vault 250 also comprises a reader 260 that is adapted to readinformation on a voucher, coupon, ticket, magnetic card, or otherinformation carrying device. Display 258, such as a video screen, andspeakers 266 may be provided for presenting information to players.

FIG. 13 depicts another embodiment of the dispensing device of thepresent invention. In this embodiment, vault 400 comprises a housing 402that preferably comprises transparent material, such as glass, thatallows players to see inside of the housing. At least one tray 404 isprovided inside of housing 402. Tray 404 is pivotally mounted so that itcan rotate around a vertical axis. Partitions 406 may be provided todivide tray 404 into segments for holding different prizes. A container23, holding a prize, may be placed in each compartment formed bypartitions 406. A door 408, shown in an open position, may be providedfor inserting and removing containers 23. The various locks, inputdevices, lights, etc., of the previous embodiments may be incorporatedinto vault 400.

Turning to FIG. 14, the present invention also includes an embodiment inwhich a plurality of prizes are kept in a single compartment. In thisembodiment, vault 501 comprises a housing 514, compartment 509, and door515. Door 515 comprises locking mechanism 517, which may be any of thelocking devices above, and window 525. Rather than providing acompartment for each prize, this embodiment allows for a plurality ofprizes 523 to be displayed in a single compartment 509. The prizes maybe clothing, travel services, automobiles, electronic equipment, diningservices, jewelry, toys, artwork, and many other kinds of goods andservices. Compartment 509 is preferably designed to accommodate thenumber and size of prizes 523. This embodiment has the advantage ofconcentrating prizes together, which creates the -feeling of a treasuretrove.

This embodiment may utilize any of the security features discussedabove. For example, an RFID tag may be attached to each prize 523 andone or more RFID sensors may be provided in vault 501 or bar codes maybe attached to each prize and a bar code scanner may be positioned inthe vault.

When a prize qualifying event occurs, the player would go to vault 501and select a prize. The player may indicate the selection using an inputdevice 513. Alternatively, the player may simply tell an attendant whichprize he or she has selected. The attendant may then be given a voucher,either automatically or manually, and the player would redeem thevoucher at another location, such as a redemption booth or the attendantmay open door 515 and hand the displayed prize to the player. Theattendant may also follow various security procedures, such as recordingthe prize transaction.

Automatic Dispensing

The present invention also includes a dispensing mechanism that canautomatically dispense the prize to the player. This and otherdispensing mechanisms can be incorporated into all of the variousembodiments of the vault. An example of one possible dispensingmechanism is illustrated in FIG. 12. Dispensing mechanisms are wellknown, and many mechanisms, such as vending machine mechanisms, may beadapted for use in the present invention. If a dispensing mechanism isused, vault 250 may have the advantage of not requiring the involvementof an attendant.

One example of an automatic dispensing mechanism is shown in FIG. 12. Inthis embodiment, compartment 350 is defined by a wall 352. Compartment350 is adapted to hold a prize 356 in a container 358. Opening 354 isprovided in wall 352 and it is adapted to allow container 358 to passthrough the opening. Wall 352 may also comprise hole 370 to allow light372 to illuminate prize 356. An inventory sensor 386 may be provided inor near wall 352 for monitoring the presence of prize 356. Door 360,shown in an open position, may be provided to cover opening 354. Door360 may be attached to the vault by a hinge 362. A pin 366 that isadapted to engage lock 364 may be attached to door 360. Lock 364 is incommunication with a controller or computer (not shown) that causes thelock to allow door 360 to open. Hinge 362 may be spring loaded to allowdoor 360 to spring open when lock 364 is opened. Button device 368 maybe provided for allowing a player to select prize 356 in compartment350.

Additional security devices may also be incorporated into or associatedwith compartment 350. For example, pin 374 may be provided forpreventing container 358 from being removed. In its activated position,pin 374 projects upward through hole 376. Spring 378 is provided to biaspin 374 in a downward direction and solenoid 382 with shaft 380, biasedoutward by spring 381, is provided to force pin 374 upward. It isrecognized that many different lock mechanisms and security devices maybe used with this embodiment of the present invention.

In normal operation, a player would select prize 356 by pressing button368 or activating some other selection indicating device. The controllerwould then activate lock 364 which would allow pin 366 to disengage thelock 364. Door 360 would then be caused to open exposing container 358through opening 354. The controller would then activate solenoid 382,which would then cause shaft 380 to move away from pin 374. Spring 378would then cause pin 374 to descend into to hole 376, thereby allowingcontainer 358 to move through opening 354. A spring 384 may be providedfor pushing container 358 at least partially through opening 354. Otherlatching, locking, pushing, or moving devices may also be used.

The present invention may also include an automatic replenishmentmechanism (not shown). Such a mechanism would restock the compartment350 with a prize after a prize has been dispensed. The replenishmentmechanism may comprise a conveyor system that would position a prize incompartment 350 from the rear of the compartment.

Networked System

FIG. 11 illustrates a system 300 of the present invention in which avault 312 is used to service a plurality of gaming devices 35. Vault 312may be any of the vaults discussed above or a combination of the vaultsdiscussed above. A communication device 302 may be provided for allowingvault 312 to communicate with gaming devices 35. Many differentcommunication devices are well known in the art that could be adaptedfor use the present invention. One example of a communication device isan Ethernet local area network with appropriate software and networkcards installed in vault 312 and gaming devices 35.

System 300 may comprise a central computer 304 that may be used tomanage the system. For example, central computer 304 may track playeractivity, monitor the status of prizes in vault 312, monitor inventory,authorize access of attendants and players, authorize the dispensing ofprizes, and communicate with other devices.

Vault 312 is preferably positioned so that it receives maximum exposureto players. As players walk by vault 312 they can see prizes beingdisplayed there and preferably they can see the prizes when they areplaying.

In normal operation, when a player obtains a predetermined winning eventon one gaming device 35, the player may wait for an attendant to arrive.The attendant would then verify that the player has qualified for aprize. The player and the attendant would then walk to vault 312 wherethe player would select the prize and the attendant would open theappropriate door and remove the selected award. Alternatively, vault 312may have an automatic dispensing mechanism, discussed above, that woulddispense the prize to the player.

In another embodiment, the player would be issued an informationcarrying device, such as a voucher, coupon, ticket, or magnetic card,and the player would take this device to vault 312. Vault 312 would havea reader that would read the information on the information carryingdevice. Vault 312 may then verify the information with central computer304 or one of the gaming devices 35. After it had received verification,if necessary, vault 312 would allow the player to select a prize anddispense the prize to the player. Some prizes may require more than oneprize qualifying event to be redeemed. For example, a player may berequired to accumulate two or more bonus awards to qualify to receive aprize from vault 312. A system describe d in U.S. patent applicationentitled Apparatus and Method for Maintaining Game State, filed on Dec.20, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference, may be used toredeem prizes using multiple prize winning events.

In one embodiment of the present invention, central computer 304 is incommunication over a communication network 308 with a remote server 310.Remote server 310 maintains a database of prizes that are available forthe player to receive. A display device, such as a video screen, may beprovided on each gaming device and/or on vault 12 for displaying theprizes available for selection. An input device may also be provided forselecting prizes and navigating through various menus. Once a player hasqualified for a prize, the player would be presented with one or moreprizes that the player could receive. The prizes may be categorized intodifferent award levels that correspond with the different award levelsin the underlying game. The player would then select a prize. The prizemay be given to the player at vault 312, at another establishment, suchas a store, or it may be delivered to the player.

The present invention may be adapted for use with player trackingsystems wherein the prizes to be awarded to a player are associated withthe player and not a particular device. For example, when a player hasqualified to win a prize, a record of the qualification is recorded in acentralized database. The qualification is associated with the identityof the player, which may be implemented with a player number. The playermay then go to any vault that is in communication with the system toselect and receive a prize.

CONCLUSION

Although the description above contains many specifications, theseshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention but asmerely providing illustrations of some of presently preferredembodiments of this invention. Thus, the scope of the invention shouldbe determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents ratherthan by the examples given.

1-53. (canceled)
 54. A system for awarding prizes, comprising: a gamingdevice capable of producing a prize qualifying event; and a vaultcoupled to the gaming device, wherein the vault houses one or moretangible prizes that may be distributed to a player on occurrence of theprize qualifying event.
 55. The system of claim 54, wherein the vaultfurther comprises: a housing having one or more compartments, whereinthe tangible prizes are located in the compartments; a means forsecurely storing the tangible prizes within the vault; and a means fordispensing the tangible prizes to the player.
 56. The system of claim54, wherein the vault further comprises: a rotating tray having asubstantially vertical axis of rotation, and one or more compartments,wherein the tangible prizes are located in the one or more compartments;a means for securely storing the tangible prizes within the vault; and ameans for dispensing the tangible prizes to the player.
 57. The systemof claim 56, wherein the vault further comprises a means for selecting atangible prize by the player.
 58. The system of claim 57, wherein thevault further comprises a means for rotating the rotating tray.
 59. Asystem for awarding prizes, comprising: a gaming device capable ofproducing a prize qualifying event; and a vault coupled to the gamingdevice, wherein the vault houses one or more tangible prizes that may bedistributed to a player on occurrence of the prize qualifying event, thevault comprising: a housing having one or more compartments, wherein thetangible prizes are located in the one or more compartments; a means forsecurely storing the tangible prizes within the compartments; and ameans for dispensing the tangible prizes to the player.
 60. The systemof claim 59, wherein the vault further comprises: a rotating tray havinga substantially vertical axis of rotation, and one or more compartments,wherein the tangible prizes are located in the one or more compartments;a means for securely storing the tangible prizes within the vault; and ameans for dispensing the tangible prizes to the player.
 61. The systemof claim 60 wherein the vault further comprises a means for selecting atangible prize by the player.
 62. The system of claim 61 wherein thevault further comprises a means for rotating the rotating tray.
 63. Asystem for awarding a prize, comprising: a gaming device capable ofproducing a prize qualifying event; and a vault coupled to the gamingdevice, wherein the vault houses one or more tangible prizes that may bedistributed to a player at an occurrence of the prize qualifying event,the vault comprising a rotating tray having a substantially verticalaxis of rotation, and one or more compartments, wherein one or moretangible prizes are stored in the compartments.
 64. The system of claim63, wherein the vault further comprises a means for securely storing thetangible prizes within the vault.
 65. The system of claim 64, whereinthe vault further comprises a means for dispensing the tangible prizesto the player.
 66. The system of claim 65, wherein the vault furthercomprises a means for selecting a tangible prize by the player.
 67. Thesystem of claim 66, wherein the vault further comprises a means forrotating the rotating tray.